Orange Balloon Dog Sculpture

On november 12 2013 koons s balloon dog orange sold at christie s post war and contemporary art evening sale in new york for 58 4 million making the sculpture the most expensive by a living artist this work is one of five unique versions the other colors being blue magenta red and yellow.

Orange balloon dog sculpture.

High end estimates suggested it might sell for as much as 55 million. On november 12 2013 koons s balloon dog orange sold at christie s post war and contemporary art evening sale in new york city for usd 58 4 million above its high usd 55 million estimate becoming the most expensive artwork by a living artist sold at auction for. He examines what is at play in the exchange of vast amounts of money and what nudges buyers. Jeff koons released balloon dogs as part of his celebration series in 1993.

The series evolved from his desire to recreate the ecstatic experiences of a child s enjoyment of the world through universal signifiers representing birthday parties and festive events. In the orange balloon dog economist and bestselling author don thompson cites these and other fascinating examples to explore the sometimes baffling activities of the high end contemporary art market. In 2013 his 10 foot tall balloon dog orange 1994 2000 was purchased for 58 4 million at christie s setting a new record for the most expensive work ever sold at auction by a living artist. Critics are sharply divided in their views of koons.

His works have sold for substantial sums including at least two record auction prices for a work by a living artist. At christie s tuesday night balloon dog orange by jeff koons an american artist known for brightly colored reflective sculptures that resemble balloons was sold to an anonymous telephone bidder for 58 4 million surpassing initial 55 million estimates to become the most expensive work by a living artist sold at auction according to the new york times. Some view his work as pioneering and of major art historical importance. His works have sold for substantial sums including at least one world record auction price for a work by a living artist.

These playful sculptures are now among the most iconic works of contemporary art.